BROKEN ARROW—Every other year, family and childhood convention leaders from Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri and Church Forward (formerly Kansas-Nebraska Convention of Southern Baptists), along with Lifeway Kids Ministry leaders work together to host the Heart of the Child Conference. This training conference, designed for anyone involved in childhood ministry or church leadership, brings together speakers to equip those who attend with skills to minister to families in churches across the nation. Heart of the Child will be held at Broken Arrow, First March 13–14.
The key verse for this year’s conference is Heb. 10:23-24, “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.”
“We hope to encourage, inspire and equip children’s ministry leaders across the region to remember the faithfulness of God as they consistently serve kids and families and point them to Jesus,” said Sarah Hagar, Oklahoma Baptists Children’s Camp & Childhood ministy partner.
Throughout the two-day conference, there will be a mix of general sessions and numerous breakout opportunities. The keynote speakers include Danielle Bell, Children’s Minster at Murfreesboro, Tenn., Belle Aire; Jessica Peck, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Professor at Baylor University; and Todd Fisher, executive director-treasurer for Oklahoma Baptists. Numerous other speakers will cover topics in breakouts such as Partnering with Parents, Best Practices in Faith Formation for Kids and more. All of these will have an emphasis on preschool, children and pre-teen age groups.
“The Heart of the Child conference is a tremendous opportunity for children’s workers to refuel their tank, reconnect with friends and reset their gaze on God,” said Oklahoma Baptists Young Adult Discipleship & Ministry partner Prophet Bailey who spoke at the previous Heart of the Child Conference held in Oklahoma. “My heart was full having the opportunity to speak and worship with a sanctuary full of children’s workers and leaders who are determined to reach the next generation at their earliest stage.”
In the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC), the common belief is “we can do more together than apart.” That is why this conference is planned and carried out by associates from numerous states and Lifeway Kids.
Pre-conference check-in will be at 8:30 a.m., Fri., March 13. The conference will last until 6:30 p.m. and continue at 7:30 a.m., Sat., March 14, with a Family Ministry Breakfast, then concluding at 2:30 p.m. For a more detailed schedule and to register for the event, visit heartofthechild.net.
